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Sports funds for Broadford

A new multi-purpose pavilion and two new netball courts will be built at Broadford’s Harley Hammond Reserve.

The Victorian Government has given $500 000 towards the $1.3 million project, which includes the new pavilion and netball courts complete with lighting.

Mitchell Shire Council had earmarked $56 000 in the 2018-19 budget for planning, but with the latest injection of funds, will now be able to progress the project substantially further.

“These upgrades will encourage more people to take up sport including young girls and women who are under-represented in sports compared to their male counterparts,” Mitchell Shire Mayor Rhonda Sanderson said.

“Council works closely with our Committees of Management and clubs who work so hard to manage, maintain and improve facilities and provide sport and recreation opportunities for our community.

“We cant do it alone and we are very grateful for the support we have received from the Victorian Government for sport and recreation projects across the Shire in recent years.”

The funding has been made possible by advocacy work from Ms Symes, whose children also do Auskick and Milo cricket at the reserve. Broadford Tennis Club, local schools and community groups will also be able to use the upgraded amenities, courts and new pavilion.

The Victorian Government and Mitchell Shire carried out a $340 000 upgrade of Harley Hammond Reserve last year, which saw a new grass surface, turf wicket, an automatic irrigation system and conduit laid for future lighting.

“I have chewed the ear off Minister for Sport John Eren and campaigned strongly to get this $500 000 funding for the Broadford community and the Andrews Government is giving them the facilities they need so more locals can play the sports they love,” she said.

“This significant upgrade is a major win for my home town of Broadford and the hundreds of players from the sporting clubs and schools who currently use this ground.”